Principal Developer

Salary: £70,000–£80,000 per annumWorking arrangement: Remote with one day per month onsite in ManchesterWe are recruiting a Principal Java Developer for a hands-on leadership role combining software development with line management. You will work across a modern technology stack including Java, Spring, AWS and CI/CD, while working closely with UX, Product and Test colleagues, leading teams that solve complex problems and supporting the development of other engineers.Key responsibilitiesDevelop high-quality Java/Spring software and provide hands-on technical leadership.Work with AWS cloud technologies and modern CI/CD development and deployment practices.Champion Agile development and Extreme Programming practices, including test-driven development.Line manage developers through regular one-to-ones, coaching and objective setting.Mentor engineers and support their technical and professional development.Collaborate with UX, Product and Test teams to solve problems and guide delivery.Contribute ideas and help improve engineering practices and ways of working.Essential experienceAround six years or more of professional development experience, with strong hands-on Java and Spring expertise.Experience working with AWS and CI/CD pipelines/practices.Proven technical leadership and experience leading teams to solve problems.Confident people management experience, including direct line management, coaching and performance objectives.A commitment to code quality, Agile delivery and test-driven development.Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach.A proactive, inquisitive mindset and a willingness to challenge existing approaches and keep learning.Desirable experienceCustomer-facing work and experience in pensions or financial technology.Examples of driving improvements within a previous role or team.Involvement in recruiting developers from graduate through to principal level.Participation in developer communities, technical forums or knowledge-sharing sessions.